Looking at the officials before him, the president remarked that he wondered “whether they are here by design or they were waylaid,” before adding , “The way they are dressed, they don't look like they knew they were coming to State House.”

Ruto said future guests who fail to meet the expected standard for official functions could be turned away at the gate. “The manner of dress of these people has no indication about the seriousness of this occasion. We take this occasion very, very seriously,” he said.

Also present at the ceremony were Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Youth Affairs and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga and Council of Economic Advisors chair David Ndii.

On Sunday, Gachagua, who has declared he wants to block Ruto from winning a second term, mocked the President’s appearance while speaking to supporters. In the remarks, he suggested Ruto had become noticeably thinner and implied the President’s wealth was not legitimate.

Ruto responded on Tuesday with a blunt attack of his own, telling critics to “go to the gym” and accusing them of overeating, with remarks aimed at opponents that were widely interpreted as personal insults rather than political rebuttal.

The exchange has drawn concern among observers that Kenya’s political discourse is sliding further away from policy debates into ridicule and personality-driven attacks, well ahead of the official campaign period.

The country’s general elections are scheduled to be held by August 2027. Voters will elect the president, and members of the National Assembly and Senate.

Article 143 of Kenya’s constitution states that neither civil nor criminal proceedings can be “instituted in any court against the President or the person performing the functions of that office during their tenure of office in respect of anything done or not done in the exercise of their powers under this Constitution.”

The case was filed in 2024 by 13 activists and the Kenya Bora Tuitakayo Citizens Association, who want the electoral commission compelled to hold a referendum on whether Ruto should be removed for alleged incompetence, abuse of power and violations of the Constitution. They accuse the president of more than 30 breaches, including ethnically skewed appointments, misuse of executive authority and the controversial deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces during the June 2024 Gen-Z protests .

Ruto’s legal team, led by Senior Counsel Fred Ngatia, argued that the petition was unconstitutional because a sitting president cannot be sued directly. The court agreed, striking out Ruto as a respondent and transferring his representation to the Attorney General. Ngatia also insisted that the Constitution provides only one legal route for removing a president, impeachment by Parliament and warned against what he called attempts to “bypass structured constitutional processes”.

The petitioners dispute that view, saying the Constitution also grants citizens sovereign power to seek political accountability through direct democratic means, including a referendum. Their lawyer, Kibe Mungai, said the activists were not asking the court to oust the president but to declare whether he violated the Constitution, a finding they argue could justify a public vote.

The judge declined to stop the case, leaving open the question of whether a popular referendum can supplement or override parliamentary impeachment procedures. The petitioners now plan to request a larger bench to hear the matter, citing its constitutional relevance.

Ojwang's death reignited simmering anger over police brutality in the East African nation, with demonstrators in the capital, Nairobi, calling for Lagat's resignation as well as for legal action against him.

They furthermore urged protests to be held on Tuesday, June 17, against police brutality. On Monday, Lagat said in light of the ongoing investigation into Ojwang's death, "I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General, Kenya Police Service, pending completion of investigations."

"I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident," he said in a statement. He did not give any indication of how long the investigation and his leave of absence would be.

Two police officers and a civilian have been arrested in connection with Ojwang's death. President William Ruto urged investigators to act swiftly and pledged that the government would "protect citizens from rogue police officers".

Lagat's move comes ahead of the first anniversary of deadly anti-government demonstrations, which saw scores killed in national violence. Rights groups say dozens of people were illegally detained in the aftermath of the rallies, with many still missing, and others have been arrested for criticism of Ruto and the government.

Ruto's office said on Monday he had called Ojwang's father. According to Gladys Wanga, the governor of Homa Bay County, from where Ojwang hailed, the president has also offered two million shillings (around $15,000) in support for his family.

Raila Odinga, a leading Kenyan opposition figure who allied with Ruto this year, is providing one million shillings, Wanga indicated, adding she had offered the family a two-bedroom home.

Ruto said the plan would make it easier for contributors to buy homes and help those already repaying mortgages to reduce their costs.

“I will propose a legal change in Parliament to allow contributors to access a KSh5 million affordable home loan at a single-digit interest rate, for any housing unit in the market,” the President was quoted by Kenyans.co.ke as saying.

He added that the loan could also be used to clear existing mortgages, giving people more flexibility in managing their housing expenses.

The proposal follows the recent handover of the first 1,080 homes in Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Nairobi, under a rent-to-own scheme.

Tenants will pay for up to 30 years to own the homes. In Homa Bay, Ruto also oversaw the handover of 110 units under the Boma Yangu affordable housing project.

Kenya’s housing levy, introduced in March 2024, requires employees to pay 1.5% of their gross salary, matched by the same amount from employers.

In return, contributors get a housing tax relief of 15% of the total amount deducted, with a maximum relief of KSh108,000 ($820) each year, or KSh9,000 ($68) per month.

From late 2024, the housing levy and other statutory deductions, including the Social Health Insurance Fund and post-retirement medical fund, have been treated as deductible expenses when calculating taxable income.

This change means these contributions are no longer taxed twice, which lowers the final amount workers owe under the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax system.

The government says these reforms aim to make housing more affordable and ease the tax burden on ordinary Kenyans.

His comments followed a series of incidents that strained relations, including the recent deportation of Kenyan and Ugandan activists from Tanzania.

The activists had travelled to attend the treason trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu.

Among those detained and sent back were former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua, ex-Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, and prominent activist Boniface Mwangi.

Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire was also deported.

The move drew strong criticism from Kenyan civil society and sparked heated exchanges in both countries' parliaments.

In his speech, President Ruto said: “Our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us. Our friends from Uganda, if there’s anything that Kenyans have done that’s not right, we want to apologise.”

He added that Kenya was committed to building strong ties with its neighbours to help the region grow.

Tanzanian lawmakers had earlier accused the visiting activists of interfering in internal matters and called for tougher action.

The fallout also played out online, with Tanzanian MP Jesca Msambatavangu saying she received hundreds of messages from Kenyan youth after criticising the visitors.

Despite the tensions, lawmakers from both Kenya and Tanzania appeared together during the prayer event, singing and showing unity in a symbolic gesture of reconciliation.

In Migori County, Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo has emphasised the urgent need for Kenyan universities to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their curricula to foster sustainable development. Speaking at the opening of a conference at Rongo University, he stressed the importance of preparing students for real-world challenges, noting that the future of Africa relies on ethical and locally relevant AI solutions. His remarks highlighted the role of education in addressing pressing issues across various sectors, such as agriculture and healthcare.

Empowering small businesses with grants

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki unveiled a Sh28 billion ($210 million) initiative aimed at supporting over 100,000 small businesses in Kenya as part of the government's strategy to uplift economic opportunities for struggling citizens. Announced during a youth empowerment event in Naivasha, the initiative will distribute funds across 70 constituencies, directly benefiting micro and small enterprises. Kindiki reiterated the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive economy, emphasising the importance of financial support for grassroots entrepreneurs.

Kenya Sugar Board warns on factory leases

The Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) has threatened to terminate the leases of four state-owned sugar factories unless private investors comply with conditions regarding modernisation, farmer support, and timely payments. CEO Jude Chesire highlighted that these stipulations aim to protect the welfare of sugarcane farmers amidst ongoing unrest over the Nzoia Sugar Factory's lease. Protests erupted from local leaders accusing the leasing agreement of endangering the region’s economic stability, bringing attention to the need for responsible management of the sugar industry.

Abuse of Kenyan domestic workers exposed

A distressing report by Amnesty International reveals the severe abuse experienced by over 70 Kenyan women employed as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. Documented testimonies illustrate exploitation by recruitment agents and inhumane working conditions, with calls for greater protections from both the Kenyan and Saudi governments. The report underscores systemic issues within the labour export framework, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to prevent human rights violations in overseas employment.

Kenyan President's nicknames

Kenya's President William Ruto is known for his numerous nicknames, such as ‘Deputy Jesus’ and ‘El Chapo’, which exhibit changes in public perception over time. Initially viewed positively, recent monikers reflect growing dissatisfaction due to perceived failures in governance, including unpopular tax increases. Analysts note that these nicknames, while often humorous, also serve as a form of catharsis for Kenyans experiencing economic distress, demonstrating how social media influences political discourse and public sentiment.

As reported by BBC Africa Eye, members of Kenya’s security forces involved in the shooting of unarmed anti-tax protesters on June 25, 2024, have been identified. According to TV47 , an analysis of over 5,000 images confirms that the protesters posed no threat while they were killed during a demonstration against the Finance Bill. Despite public outrage and a parliamentary order for an investigation, no security personnel have been held accountable.

Campaign to Combat Online Child Sexual Exploitation Launched

According to Terre des Hommes Netherlands , the new ‘Also Online’ campaign aims to enhance awareness among parents in Kenya regarding online child sexual exploitation. Following a study showing 60% of caregivers lack adequate knowledge on this issue, the campaign encourages open communication between parents and children about online safety, amidst alarming statistics revealing thousands of reported online abuse incidents.

Kenyan Broadcasting Authority Cracks Down on Gambling Ads

The Communications Authority of Kenya has mandated broadcasters to reduce betting and gambling content within 14 days or risk losing their broadcast licenses. As reported by Broadcast Media Africa , Director General David Mugonyi highlighted that many media outlets have surpassed the legal limits for gambling content, prompting this ultimatum to ensure responsible programming and adherence to national broadcasting standards.

Kenya Leads in Data Protection, Yet State Agencies Lag

As reported by the digital rights organisation Unwanted Witness, Kenya ranks highest in data protection compliance among East African countries, although state agencies continue to perform poorly. The report assessed 189 organisations, revealing that while the private sector adheres well to data privacy laws, government bodies suffer from significant transparency issues, highlighting a crucial area for improvement.

According to a sworn affidavit by Police Constable Peter Mwangi, Mogwasi is alleged to have operated a fake Facebook account under the name of June Ruto, where he posted content on March 20 and April 8, 2025, purporting to be the president’s daughter, the Standard reports.

Mogwasi was arrested on Wednesday, April 9, in Mombasa County, before being transported to Nairobi for questioning and further investigation. The DCI cited provisions under Section 29 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act No. 5 of 2018, which criminalizes identity theft and impersonation using digital platforms.

“The respondent (Mogwasi) was arrested... on allegations of identity theft and impersonation,” Officer Mwangi told the court, emphasising that the matter involves complex digital evidence that requires additional time to analyse.

The DCI has requested a full week of custody to allow forensic experts to examine the Facebook account activity, trace communication logs, and determine the full extent of the impersonation. Authorities believe the account may have misled members of the public and could have been used for undisclosed malicious intent.

“While our political parties may differ in strategy, we share a common goal—to build a united, secure, and prosperous Kenya,” Ruto said at the signing ceremony. He emphasised that the deal was not about political positions or elections but about serving the people .

Odinga echoed this sentiment, pledging to uphold the Constitution, the rule of law, and human rights . “We commit to tackling unemployment, the cost of living, crippling poverty, and institutional inefficiencies that have plagued Kenya for decades,” he stated.

He also stressed the importance of addressing corruption , leadership integrity, and fundamental freedoms such as free speech and public assembly.

The partnership comes amid economic struggles, including rising debt and persistent corruption.

Odinga is a five-time presidential candidate and has long been a key opposition figure in Kenya’s politics .

“I want to give you more good news. We have agreed with Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC that the SGR will be extended from Naivasha to Uganda and Rwanda to DRC so that in a few years, they too can use the SGR when they want to come to Mombasa,” President Ruto said .

The SGR extension is expected to revolutionise trade within the East African region, creating a seamless movement of goods and people. The project will also open up access to previously hard-to-reach tourist destinations, fostering economic growth and cross-border connectivity.

Uganda is already laying the groundwork, with construction of the SGR from Malaba, eastern Uganda, to Kampala set to commence in January 2025. The 272-kilometre railway line will take approximately 48 months to complete.

During the launch of the project last month, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni emphasised its transformative potential. “Works on the Naivasha-Malaba section by our Kenyan counterparts will start very soon. The two countries have agreed on the timelines of the two projects to ensure the seamless movement of trains from Kampala to Mombasa,” Museveni said.

He further highlighted the efficiency gains, stating that the SGR would reduce transportation times for goods from 14 days to just 24 hours, marking a significant milestone for regional trade logistics.

The SEC alleges that the bribery scheme was aimed at securing a lucrative solar energy project awarded by the Indian government. As part of the scheme, Adani Green Energy, a subsidiary of the group, raised $175 million from U.S. investors during a $750 million note offering in September 2021.

According to SEC officials, the company misrepresented its compliance with anti-bribery laws to attract investors, including assurances that senior executives had not engaged in corrupt practices.

The SEC’s Acting Enforcement Director, Sanjay Wadhwa, emphasised the commitment to holding corporate officers accountable for securities law violations.

“As alleged, Gautam and Sagar Adani induced U.S. investors to buy Adani Green bonds through an offering process that misrepresented not only that Adani Green had a robust anti-bribery compliance program but also that the company’s senior management had not and would not pay or promise to pay bribes, and Cyril Cabanes participated in the underlying bribery scheme while serving as director of a U.S. public company,” said Wadhwa.

Who is Gautam Adani?

Gautam Adani, one of India’s wealthiest individuals, built his empire from humble beginnings . Born in Gujarat, he started in the diamond trade and later expanded into various sectors, including ports, coal, and renewable energy. At its peak in 2022, his net worth reached $127 billion. The Adani Group is now India’s largest private operator of ports and a key player in renewable and thermal energy.

Adani Group's response

The Adani Group has denied the allegations and pledged to defend its reputation through legal means. In a statement , the company insisted that the charges were baseless and reiterated its commitment to governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance.

“The allegations made by the US Department of Justice and the US Securities and Exchange Commission against directors of Adani Green are baseless and denied. As stated by the US Department of Justice itself, "the charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty." All possible legal recourse will be sought,” the statement read in part.

Adding, “The Adani Group has always upheld and is steadfastly committed to maintaining the highest standards of governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance across all jurisdictions of its operations. We assure our stakeholders, partners, and employees that we are a law-abiding organisation, fully compliant with all laws.”

Any financial impact?

The scandal has already caused significant financial repercussions for the Adani Group. The conglomerate lost $27 billion in market value in a single day, and Adani Green Energy cancelled a planned $600 million bond sale. Key subsidiaries, including Adani Ports and Adani Total Gas, saw their stock prices plummet.

Why is Kenya in frame?

The Adani Group’s troubles extend to Kenya, where it has been a major development partner. Two high-profile projects —worth $736 million for power transmission and a contract to modernise Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport—placed the company at the centre of public controversy. The airport deal would have leased the country's main airport to the group for 30 years in exchange for expanding it.

The introduction of these deals and its award to the Adani group erupted anti-Adani protests in Kenya and a strike by airport workers, who said it would consequently lead to degraded working conditions and job losses in some cases. Kenyan civil society groups and labour unions criticised these deals for lacking transparency and risking job losses.

Pursuant to this, a joint action by some civil society groups sought to injunct the government from finalizing the deal with the Adani group, describing the deal as irrational.

However, while denying any form of wrongdoing, President William Ruto has, in a state of the nation address, cancelled the multimillion-dollar airport expansion project and energy deal.

Ruto said his government’s decision was “based on new information provided by our investigative agencies and partner nations.”

The South Sudan government has reached an agreement with Sudan's paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to restore operations along a critical 237-kilometre segment of the Greater Nile Oil Pipeline. This collaboration is pivotal, enabling the export of South Sudan's crude oil to the Port of Sudan. Historically, this pipeline facilitated the transport of more than 150,000 barrels of oil daily. However, it had ceased operations due to armed conflicts, resulting in severe economic repercussions—most notably, public salaries have gone unpaid for ten months, and prices for essential goods have surged. A recent joint workshop has confirmed plans for oil flow resumption; operations are anticipated to resume within 45 days, with initial shipments projected to arrive in three months. 

Ethiopia grants $738 million loan to South Sudan for major cross-broader project

Ethiopia has granted a $738 million loan to South Sudan to facilitate the construction of a major cross-border infrastructure project—a 220-kilometre road connecting the two nations. The terms stipulate that loan repayment will be sourced from South Sudan's crude oil sales to Ethiopia, effectively binding economic cooperation to infrastructural development. This initiative aligns with a prior agreement established in May 2024 and aims to bolster connectivity between South Sudan's Paloich, Maiwut, and Pagak regions and the Ethiopian border. The construction will be managed by Ethiopian contractors and includes a grace period of four years, followed by a ten-year repayment schedule. 

Kenyan president Ruto to visit South Sudan

Kenyan President William Ruto is scheduled to visit South Sudan to engage in critical discussions with President Salva Kiir concerning the Tumaini Initiative. This initiative is designed to facilitate peace talks between the South Sudan government and opposition factions that have yet to sign the peace agreement. This diplomatic mission comes in response to President Kiir’s request for Kenya to spearhead mediation, succeeding the Community of Sant’Egidio's previous role in Rome. The Presidential Press Secretary, Lily Martin Manyiel Ayuel, has underscored the importance of this visit in reaffirming Kiir’s commitment to the Tumaini Initiative amidst speculation of its potential abandonment. A prior meeting between Ruto and South Sudan officials addressed concerns regarding the initiative’s operational mechanisms, suggesting it should serve as a complement to the 2018 Peace Agreement rather than serve as a replacement, although acceptance of these terms by the opposition remains uncertain.

South Sudan grapples with hunger and cholera outbreaks

South Sudan is currently grappling with an acute humanitarian crisis characterised by escalating rates of hunger and cholera outbreaks. UN agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), World Health Organisation (WHO), and UNICEF, have called for heightened international support, noting that over half the population faces crisis-level hunger. Factors impeding aid include limited funding, geographical obstacles to isolated communities, and high food prices, exacerbated by economic instability and ongoing conflict. Moreover, the influx of refugees from Sudan, combined with severe flooding, has destroyed agricultural yields and displaced significant segments of the population. Currently, the WFP’s outreach has only reached 38% of those in dire need, often necessitating the provision of half-rations.

US embassy in South Sudan advocates for press freedom

The US embassy in South Sudan has highlighted the necessity of protecting journalists from harassment and detention. This statement coincides with the observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The embassy has reiterated the demand for a thorough investigation into the controversial death of journalist Christopher Allen during South Sudan's civil conflict in 2017. According to Reporters Without Borders, South Sudan’s ranking has significantly plummeted to 136th on the World Press Index, a stark decline from 118th in 2023, signalling an increasing climate of impunity for crimes committed against journalists worldwide.

Despite the 'good intentions' behind the lawmakers' actions, there are many Kenyans who still feel disappointed.

Kelvin Muriuki, an artist who shared his views with AFP said "If my opinion will count, I will say they would have gone both of them; both the president and the vice president because they failed this country in a big way. Ever since they got into office, there is nothing that we are seeing that is going on. All what is happening is looting of public resources. And we are we are very much angry with this government."

Elphas Otieno, a citizen on the other hand said "It is now Gachagua for himself, but at the end of the day, the MPs, they did a good thing. I wish they could do this to other matters as well. Gachagua is an individual. We have matters in this country which need more or less the same debate. The cost of living, the airport (Adani deal), NHIF (National Health Insurance Fund), all these matters also need attention.

On Tuesday evening, Speaker Moses Wetangula announced that 281 MPs had approved an 11-charge impeachment motion , with 44 MPs opposing and one abstaining.

This unprecedented vote makes Gachagua the first Kenyan deputy president to be impeached by the National Assembly. The final decision on his removal now rests with the Senate.

Accused of practising ethnically divisive politics, Rigathi Gachagua has denied any form of wrongdoing.

In a significant plea, graduates from blacklisted universities in Togo and Benin Republic are urging the Nigerian Federal Government to overturn its invalidation of their degrees. This ruling, which is based on a certificate racketeering report, has inflicted considerable stigma on over 30,000 graduates, prompting a call for intervention from the National Assembly. According to Punch , the affected individuals have branded the decision as traumatic, urging the Education Minister, Tahir Mamman, to reconsider his stance, as they assert that the institutions in question are accredited and reputable. They highlight that systemic issues within Nigeria's education framework have pushed students to pursue education abroad.

Goal to become Africa's Shenzhen

Togo is poised to reshape its economic landscape with aspirations to become Africa's Shenzhen, supported by China. Xie Yanshen, president of the Overseas Chinese Association in Togo, highlighted the potential of China-Africa partnerships, anticipating a peak in cooperation between these regions. The emphasis is on a collective quest for modernisation, promising significant prospects for economic growth and integration as reported by ECNS . Togo's commendable business climate reforms have garnered it a ranking of fifteenth globally and first in Africa for ease of starting a business, reflecting its dedication to improving its investment landscape. This encompasses key initiatives: the establishment of specialised courts for enforcing contracts, digitisation of cross-border trading processes, and reforms in construction permit acquisition.

Ruto courts support for Raila in Togo

On September 4, 2024, Ruto met with Togolese President Faure Essozimna and Malian President Colonel Assimi Goita at the FOCAC summit in Beijing. Raila, Kenya’s candidate for the February 2025 AUC chairmanship, also attended. Ruto shared on X that they discussed support for Raila's candidacy and a pan-African Congress in Lome, Togo, later this year. According to People Daily , Ruto underscored the importance of unity within Africa to address collective aspirations, such as the Continental Agenda 2063. The upcoming pan-African Congress in Togo will serve as a platform for Odinga's bid, which faces considerable competition in a crucial election requiring a two-thirds majority.

Calls for more women in finance auditing

Togo's Court of Auditors aims for 30% female representation in public finance audit bodies by 2025. Currently, only one of 20 magistrates is a woman, and gender imbalances exist in other institutions. The Court's new law emphasises strengthening the female workforce in key agencies. This initiative was launched at an August 30, 2024 symposium in Lomé, organized with GIZ, reports Togo First .

Registration deadline for the 2024-2025 coffee and cocoa extended

The Coordination Committee for Coffee and Cocoa Sectors (CCFCC) in Togo has extended the registration deadline for the 2024-2025 marketing season to September 16. Operators with incomplete applications are urged to finalise their documents. Approved exporters will be announced after this period. Coffee and cocoa exports have risen, with the 2022-2023 season seeing increases of 9% and 63%, respectively, reports Togo First .

The bill, according to them, would have further exacerbated the suffering of Kenyan citizens. Following this, the president withdrew the controversial taxes.

Other protests were in demand for the resignation of the president despite his sack of the majority of his cabinet.

The military personnel are assisting police who have been clashing with protestors, mostly using tear gas. Hundreds took to the streets across Kenyan towns in defiance of a police ban that stopped protestors from embarking on the same, AFP reports.

Amnesty International and other organisations are calling for a competitive recruitment process to appoint the next inspector general of police in Kenya. They want the National Police Service Commission to be involved in the recruitment process and for the new IG to uphold human rights and police accountability. The groups also want police leaders to be held responsible for human rights violations and for prompt, thorough investigations to be conducted. They are urging the authorities to take action against police officers who have violated rights during protests. The statement was signed by the Civic Freedoms Forum and Police Reforms Working Group, Phuket News reports.

Ruto announces partial cabinet

Kenya’s President William Ruto announced a partial cabinet after weeks of protests, including six members from the previous cabinet. According to Jurist News , the protests began as peaceful rallies against tax hikes but have evolved into a wider antigovernment campaign calling for Ruto to step down. At least 50 people have died since the protests began in June. Ruto’s appointments were quickly rejected by activists and the opposition coalition, who called it a "cosmetic" change and rejected the idea of a unity government.

Sports tourism

Kenya Tourism Board plans to use Paris Olympics to showcase Kenya's potential in sports tourism. The upcoming event presents an opportunity to highlight the country's culture and heritage to a global audience. The board aims to attract more tourists to experience Kenya's peak tourism season and diverse attractions. Aljazeera reports that Kenya enters the Olympics as Africa's most decorated nation with over 100 medals.

Kenyan journalist shot

Kenyan journalist Catherine Wanjeri was shot three times in the leg by police while covering protests. The Kenya Union of Journalists is demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the incident. Media watchdogs and international organizations have condemned the shooting and called for police accountability. Wanjeri is still in the hospital and needs time to recover and complete physical therapy, English News reports.

China investment

China's direct investment in Kenya has dropped by over a third in the last three years. This is largely due to China's focus on exporting products rather than investing. Meanwhile, the U.S. has slightly increased its investments in Kenya, particularly in sectors like health, ICT, and pharmaceuticals. V.O.A reports that India is now the leading nation for foreign investment in Kenya, followed by Japan and then China.

This follows youth-led protests that broke out a month ago against proposed tax hikes even after Ruto withdrew the legislation. Activists say they want Ruto to resign and are calling for systemic changes to clean up corruption and address poor governance.

At least 50 people have been killed in the protests to date, the government-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has said .

About the protests

The protests began on June 18 in Nairobi under the “Occupy Parliament banner”. It was led by Generation Z and human rights activists and spread to at least 18 counties, including Mombasa.

By June 20, the demonstrations had intensified, with clashes between protesters and police, resulting in deaths and injuries, including journalists and observers.

A 29-year-old man was killed during the protests. Reuters reports that the man sustained a thigh wound allegedly as a result of police shooting. He later died after being rushed to the hospital. The government earlier this week softened its stance with recommendations to scrap some of the new levies including car ownership taxes, bread, cooking oil taxes, and taxes on other financial transactions but public outrage remains high.

What is in the Finance Bill?

The Finance Bill proposed by government for the coming fiscal year aims to raise Ksh302 billion ($2.36 billion) through new taxes. The bill has some proposals that have been described as contentious by human rights activists and citizens.

It proposes among other things,

Opposition MPs have rejected the Bill. After a meeting by President Ruto with MPs and Senators on June 20, the following amendments were announced.

The removal of a 16 % VAT on bread, transportation of sugar, financial services, foreign exchange transactions as well as the 2.5% Motor Vehicle Tax. It also removes increased taxes on mobile money transfers, and Excise Duty on vegetable oil.

Levies on the Housing Fund and the proposed one on Social Health Insurance will not attract income tax, putting much more money in the pockets of employees.

What they said

Many have commended the young generation (Gen-Z) for taking up the task of protesting against taxes they find contentious and detrimental to the economy.

Meanwhile, several other groups including human rights groups have described the conduct of the police as abusive and unacceptable.  Amnesty International has accused the police of using excessive force to contain protesters, many of whom were arrested. ICJ Kenya, a human rights organisation has also described the police’s actions as “a gross violation of human rights”.

What they said

"I plan on going in February after I am reelected" Biden is quoted to have said during discussions with Kenyan President William Ruto at the White House. The National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan told the media that Biden intends to embark on the visit in his capacity as president of the United States of America. Meanwhile, senior administration officials have said that discussions between Biden and Ruto would include a wide range of topics, ranging from trade and debt relief to addressing challenges in Haiti, Ukraine, Sudan, and other regions, Reuters reports.

In Perry's absence, Ruto and his entourage were welcomed by American TV host Steve Harvey who led the tour, the Star reports.

"Unfortunately, my schedule was booked and I’m heartbroken that I couldn’t move things around in time to be there to greet President Ruto of Kenya as he and his family and delegation toured Tyler Perry Studios," Perry wrote in a Facebook post.

The filmmaker further announced his anticipated visit to the East African country to make up for his absence.

"The good news is that means I will have to make my way to Kenya very soon! I am honoured, humbled, and thankful that you stopped by President Ruto. Thank you Steve Harvey for stepping in. What a blessing," he added.

The President, who is on a four-day visit to the United States, including a state visit that officially started on May 22, met stakeholders in the film industry to explore ways to partner and grow the Kenyan local film industry.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent 200 tonnes of aid, including food and medical equipment, to Kenya to help flood victims. The UAE is committed to providing necessary humanitarian aid and an early recovery program to address the impact of the floods. This follows a directive from President Sheikh Mohamed to send Dh55 million ($15 million) in aid for flood victims in Kenya earlier this month. More than 235,000 people have been displaced by the recent flooding in Kenya and other parts of Africa, T he National News reports.

Digital transformation agenda

Kenya is fast-tracking the issuance of digital ID cards and birth certificates by opening new registration offices and involving local chiefs. According to Biometric Update , the initiative aims to streamline the process for enrolling biometrics and obtaining identification documents, with the new digital ID card integrating multiple functions. This move is part of the government's broader digital transformation agenda and is being implemented to improve service delivery and reduce fraud. The involvement of local administrative officers is expected to ensure higher registration rates and smoother implementation of the new system.

Kenya Airways suspends staff bonuses

Kenya Airways has suspended bonuses for its staff due to flight disruptions. The company is expected to face a surge in refund claims as a consequence of widespread delays and flight cancellations. Flight disruptions as a result of a shortage of cabin crew and some engine issues were mentioned as part of the reasons for the delays, Business Daily reports.

Taxes on electric vehicles

Kenya plans to introduce new taxes on electric bikes, buses, and solar batteries, potentially raising costs. This move contradicts the country's e-mobility policy and could hinder the growth of the EV market. The Africa eMobility Alliance has criticised the taxes, warning that they may drive consumers towards fuel-inefficient vehicles. According to Tech Labari , the EV market in Kenya has seen significant growth, but the new taxes could reverse this positive trend.

President Ruto's trip to U.S.

Kenya justified the expense of a luxury private jet for President Ruto's trip to the U.S. The President is said to have used a luxury private jet estimated to be $1.5m (£1.2m). "The benefits from this visit far outweigh such a million times," government spokesman Isaac Mwaura told the BBC .

However, the Ruto government's proposed tax adjustments including plans to eliminate VAT exemptions on essential items like bread, imposing higher taxes on mobile money transfers, and introducing an annual tax based on the value of motor vehicles have sparked debate across local media platforms and online forums, curating negative reviews for the president.

Addressing a group of Harvard Business School students at the state house, President Ruto reiterated his administration's commitment to bolstering tax revenues, despite the potential burden it may place on Kenyan citizens. He outlined ambitious targets, aiming to elevate tax revenues as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the current 14% to 22%. 

“My drive is to push Kenya, possibly to 16 per cent this year. I want to leave it at 20 and 22 per cent over my term. It is going to be difficult, I have a lot of explaining to do, people will complain but I know that they will appreciate it,” he is quoted as saying.

  Dismissing assertions of over-taxation, Ruto challenged prevailing perceptions by citing empirical data. "Kenyans have been socialised to believe that they pay the highest taxes. Empirical data shows that Kenya, as of last year, had a fourteen percent tax as a percentage of revenue. Our peers on the continent average between twenty-two and twenty-five percent,” he said.

The first African leader to be hosted at the White House was Ghana’s former president John Agyekum Kufour in 2008 under the George Bush administration. 

There are concerns that the new tax could hurt foreign investment and affect global tech firms operating in Kenya. The bill will possibly also affect foreign digital businesses by increasing taxes to 6% of gross revenue.

Meanwhile, there’s a widespread objection to a proposed removal of the VAT exemptions on bread and the introduction of a 3.5% annual tax on the value of cars.

According to Semafor , other proposals including tax hikes on money transfer firms, mobile money transfers, and transactions across banks have raised controversies.

The Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government in Kenya has reported a staggering death toll of 228 due to ongoing floods. In the past 24 hours alone, nine more fatalities have been recorded, mirroring the grim toll witnessed between Friday and Saturday. Alongside the loss of lives, 164 individuals have been injured, and 72 remain missing, the Nation Africa reports. The situation has prompted the government to issue a weather forecast warning of moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in 37 counties, particularly in the Coast, Western, and Lake Victoria basin regions. “The Tropical Cyclone Hidaya storm is over and forecasted to have weakened; however, heavy rainfall is still expected offshore along the Coast region with strong winds and large waves already experienced in Kwale,” a statement by the Ministry read in part.

Judicial appointments

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has submitted a list of 20 candidates for appointment as High Court Judges to President William Ruto. Following a thorough review process, which included interviews conducted from April 3 to May 3, the JSC selected these candidates from a pool of 305 applicants, shortlisting 100 for consideration, according to KBC . This forms part of the Judiciary's efforts to bolster service delivery through the recruitment of additional personnel. An initiative touted by the Ruto administration to enhance the efficiency of the judiciary.

Kenya Airways halts flights to Kinshasa

Kenya Airways (KQ) has suspended its services to Kinshasa, causing disruptions in air travel within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The decision, effective April 30, has left a significant void in the market, as KQ was one of only two airlines providing daily flights between Kinshasa and eastern Africa hubs. The move follows the detention of KQ staff by DRC military authorities over an incident involving the attempted shipment of high-value cargo without proper customs procedures. This suspension not only raises concerns about airfare hikes but also highlights challenges in ensuring seamless air travel operations within the region, The East African has reported.

 AI-powered healthcare 

Innovation in healthcare through AI-powered startups is gaining momentum in Kenya, with initiatives like iZola, M-Tiba, MYDAWA, Zuri Health, and Goodlife leading the charge. These startups are leveraging AI technology to develop new treatments, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and personalize patient care, revolutionizing the healthcare landscape, Business Daily Africa reports. Dr. Wamuyu Owatoki, a scientist and operations lead expert said "AI-powered healthcare startups are revolutionizing healthcare and changing the healthcare landscape at an increasingly rapid pace. Many trends and predictions point to a profoundly transformed healthcare ecosystem driven by the integration and development of AI.” Platforms like iZola are employing AI-driven diagnostic systems to detect early signs of conditions such as autism, paving the way for early intervention and improved patient outcomes.

$1 billion IMF disbursement 

President William Ruto has expressed confidence in Kenya's expectation of a $1 billion disbursement from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) next month. This infusion of funds is poised to further bolster Kenya's recovering economy, which has shown signs of improvement following recent fiscal measures, the Citizen Digital reports. Notably, Kenya's shilling currency has rebounded from record lows, and robust lending from the IMF and World Bank has helped navigate liquidity challenges. The ongoing review process with the IMF aims to unlock additional financial support for Kenya's economic recovery efforts.

Major-General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed first made history when she was promoted as the first woman Brigadier. In 2018, President Uhuru Kenyatta promoted her to the position of Major-General in the East African Country.

She replaces Major-General John Mugaravai Omenda who has also been promoted to the position of Lieutenant General and appointed Vice-Chief of Defence Forces.

Major-General Ahmed, 58 years old began her military work at the age of 19 under the Women Service Corps, a woman-only outfit operating separately from the other arms of the defence forces.

She was recruited by ‘accident’ after trying an ongoing recruitment exercise, the Nation reports.

In 1983, she was commissioned to the rank of Second Lieutenant in 1985, becoming one of the many women from the Women Service Corps who were integrated into the Kenyan Army, Airforce and Navy.

President William Ruto appointed her the Senior Directing Staff Air in 2023.

Major-General Ahmed is a graduate of the National Defence College and the Defence Staff College where she graduated in 2000. 

Major-General Ahmed is a graduate of the National Defence College and the Defence Staff College where she graduated in 2000. 

The appointments were announced in a statement shared on the social media platforms of the Kenya Defence Forces.

Meanwhile, President Ruto encouraged the new appointees to uphold loyalty to the service.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has been at the forefront of the strike, citing unmet demands from a collective bargaining agreement signed in previous years.

A recent closed-door talk lasted eight hours and ended without a resolution, leaving the future of Kenya's health services uncertain.

The government representatives, including Chief of Staff Felix Koskei, have urged the doctors to compromise for the benefit of Kenyan citizens, particularly the most vulnerable. Yet, the doctors remain steadfast, expressing their determination to have their demands met.

Koskei also serves as the chairperson of a court-mandated committee overseeing the comprehensive national approach to resolving the prolonged dispute within the health sector. He explains that a negotiation could be had but only if the doctors suspend their strike in 24 hours.

“Take note that the Committee shall reconvene within 24 hours of KMPDU suspension of the strike ensuring full compliance with the order of the Principal Judge Byram Ongaya, of the Employment and Labour Relations Court of Kenya,” part of a letter served to Secretary-General of KMPDU, Davji Atellah reads.

In response to the doctor's strike, President William Ruto has argued that the financial implications of meeting these demands are costly, especially in light of the economic constraints.

“I am telling our friends, the doctors, that we mind about them. We value the service they give to our nation. But we have to live within our means,” Ruto said .

This standoff is not without precedence. A similar strike in 2017 lasted 100 days, the longest in the country’s history ended with an agreement that the doctors' demands would be met.

After 29 days since the strike began many public hospitals in the country have abandoned patients who are still hanging onto hope for a resolution, the Nation Africa reports.

The initial agreement , which included a provision for Ethiopia to have 50 years of access to the Gulf of Aden in return, sparked an uproar in neighbouring countries. Somalia strongly asserted its commitment to defending its territorial integrity, while other nations, including Egypt, urged caution. 

In a meeting between Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed and Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi last week, Bloomberg reported that Abiy expressed willingness to reconsider the deal's “most contentious elements to mend relations with Somalia.” Ethiopian officials have privately informed foreign counterparts about the country's potential willingness to drop its recognition of Somaliland.

Ruto, in an interview with Bloomberg in January, mentioned efforts by his administration to persuade Ethiopia to explore alternative options beyond the demand for a port. However, the specifics of these alternatives remain unclear.

While Ethiopia has not officially withdrawn from the agreement with Somaliland, Abiy continues to express interest in achieving direct access to the coast.

"When I visited Silicon Valley last year, Apple’s Tim Cook informed me that his company now employs about 23,000 Kenyans, all working from Nairobi," he was quoted by The Star.

But many citizens have contested the President’s statements, questioning the reality of the jobs created and describing his comments as deceitful.

“If you are among the 23000 Kenyans who have been assigned a job at Apple as the President has said, raise your hand, give us hope too,” a user of X said.

While others condemned the statements, describing it as an embarrassment on a global platform.

Youth on the Unemployment in Kenya is a challenge. Youth unemployment in Kenya is as high as 35% compared to the overall national unemployment rate of 10% according to a report .

Below are some of the reactions.

Over 150 women's rights movements in Kenya have called for the government to declare femicide a national emergency and a threat to national security, according to Kenya News Agency . The movements argue that recent femicide cases in Airbnbs highlight widespread gender inequality and the lack of effective measures to protect women and girls, Kenya News Agency reports. “We stand united against femicide, recognizing that its eradication requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society spearheaded by an anti-femicide campaign from the government. It is time for decisive action to ensure that no woman or girl in Kenya lives in fear of losing her life simply because of her gender,” said the rights movement in a joint petition.

Police deployment to Haiti blocked

The Kenyan High Court has blocked the deployment of police officers to Haiti for peacekeeping, stating in a ruling on January 26 that the Kenyan National Security Council has no legal authority to send officers outside Kenya and that the planned deployment would be illegal, local media the Standard reports. Justice Chacha Mwita, the judge in charge of the case said, “A declaration is hereby issued that the National Security Council has no mandate to deploy police officers outside Kenya under article 240 (8) of the Constitution. An order is at this moment issued prohibiting deployment of police officers to Haiti or any other country otherwise in compliance with part 14, sections 107 and 108 of the national police service act.”

First Rift Valley Fever human case

Kenya's Ministry of Health has confirmed the first reported human case of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) an acute viral hemorrhagic fever that is most commonly seen in domesticated animals such as cattle in the East African nation. “This outbreak is closely associated with the conclusion of El-Niño rains, leading to a surge in the mosquito population and an increased transmission of vector-borne diseases,” Patrick Amoth, Kenya’s Acting Director General for Health, is quoted by the national news agency .

Halting of housing levy

President William Ruto has defended his Housing levy policy, stating that the programme will continue despite the Court of Appeal's verdict. The court declined to extend an order allowing the state to stop deducting money from salaried workers. The president stated that while his administration respects the court's decision, he believed it was the wrong one in light of the current unemployment crisis affecting millions of Kenyan youth, saying his outfit will appeal the ruling, NTV Kenya reported. “I want to tell them that we were in the reprocess of creating a law to guide the process and they should have given us time. We will also appeal the case so that we continue with the programme and create jobs for millions of Kenyan youth… this is the first government that has a clear demonstrable plan on how to create employment,” he said.

Road levy on major roads

Kenya's Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, announced the East African government’s plans to charge road users for using major roads in the country. According to the official, the Kenyan government plans to expand major roads and implement a road toll model on various commonly used roads while providing alternative routes for those who wish not to pay tolls, he said on January 26. "I believe that it is possible to expand and toll the road… The good news is that there are so many alternative routes along this corridor that those who don’t wish to pay toll fees, we’ll give them those alternative roads," he is quoted by local channel Citizen Digital .

According to local news platform The Star , the funds form part of a request by the judiciary for additional budgetary support to deliver and fight corruption.

While part of the funds will go towards recruiting 36 judges, 25 from the High Court and 11 from the Court of Appeal, part of it will go towards providing adequate resources to meet the judiciary’s transport needs.

"Resources will also be provided to conclude the vehicle leasing program to facilitate the judiciary’s transport needs," stated State House spokesman Hussein Mohammed.

Meanwhile, all three Arms of Government, the Executive led by President William Ruto, the Judiciary led by Chief Justice Martha Koome, and the Legislature led by Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula have resolved to individually develop policies, guidelines, regulations, and legislative proposals to help fight corruption in the country.

According to The Star , each arm of government will submit proposals to a forum of the National Council of the Administration of Justice (NCAJ) within 30 days to provide a roadmap for the immediate, medium-term, and long-term measures to be undertaken.

"Each of the three arms of government commits to enhance service delivery, fight corruption and promote the overall administration of justice to enhance accountability to the people of Kenya," the statement read.

The tension between the two organs heightened in November 2023, when the Ruto-led administration suffered a major setback in the implementation of an affordable housing tax and universal healthcare initiatives. The court had ruled that the decision aimed at raising taxes to fund the construction of affordable homes was not only unconstitutional but also discriminatory.

In separate rulings, the court temporarily halted the deduction of a 1.5% housing levy from workers' gross monthly salaries and another deduction of 2.57 percent towards social healthcare insurance, The East African reported.

In a response, Ruto indicated his discontent with the court ruling, noting, “It is not possible that we respect the judiciary while a few individuals who are beneficiaries of corruption are using corrupt judicial officials to block our development projects.”

“We are a democracy. We respect, and we will protect, the independence of the judiciary. What we will not allow is judicial tyranny and judicial impunity,” Ruto said on January 16.

Despite being a notable beneficiary of the country's justice system when the Supreme Court upheld his contested victory in the 2022 presidential election, President William Ruto pledged to uphold the rule of law and respect the independence of the judiciary during his inauguration. However, recent clashes between Ruto and the judiciary have strained this commitment.

Meanwhile, the court hearing for the housing tax case is set to resume next week, while the petition challenging the healthcare tax is scheduled to return to court in February.

“You warned me of sabotage by corrupt judicial officers. I told you there are many good officers in the judiciary and that we will root out the corrupt. We shall. Muite SC, the impunity of bribing judges so as not to derail, delay, or sabotage Kenya’s imminent transformation will never happen under my watch. Not a single cent will be used to bribe nobody,” he said.

But the president’s comments have stimulated outrage with many citizens accusing him of supervising corrupt activities under his watch and condemning it when it works against his administration.

Meanwhile, Kenya’s Judicial Service Commission has released a statement indicating its commitment to protect the independence and transparency of the service.

“The JSC, therefore, noted with concern that honourable Judges and Judicial Officers have been subjected to public criticism and vilification for issuing court orders that are perceived to be against State programmes and policies. The JSC wishes to reaffirm the independence and integrity of the Judiciary as a co-equal arm of government as enshrined in the Constitution,” parts of the statement read.

Below are some reactions to President Ruto's comment.

According to the KCAA, the policy will not take effect until the government's announced modifications to the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system are disseminated.

“All travellers coming to Kenya from countries that require visas shall continue applying for visas in the usual manner until the government communicates more on the ETA system,” said the KCAA in a statement .

"Following the presidential directive that Kenya will be a visa-free country from January 2024, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is in the process of development and implementation. The digital platform will ensure that all travellers to Kenya are identified in advance," the authority added.

President Ruto announced in December 2023 that foreign nationals will no longer require visas to visit Kenya beginning January 2024.

What they said

President Ruto said, "It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya." "Kenya has a simple message to humanity: Welcome Home!" he added.